If it is variety that you seek, Surrey’s countryside has it all with its mosaic of ancient woodland, heath, and rivers. It is steeped in history too and the dog-friendly pubs in Surrey all provide a peek into the past.
7 of the Best Dog Friendly Pubs in Surrey
There is no better way for you to revitalise your senses by walking the stunningly scenic trails with you and your trusted friend. Green space and more green space have given it the affectionate nickname of “Leafy Surrey.” It is England’s most wooded area covering over a fifth of the county and a quarter is recorded as ancient woodland. You will often find Surrey pubs that allow dogs to nest in these lush surroundings.
It has its fair share of water too with Hawley Lake on the border with Sussex and Silent Pool near Guildford so called for its eerie stillness. A day out in the woods and on the water could be coupled with a visit to the Silent Pool Distillery where gin and vodka are handcrafted or Albury Organic Vineyard close by. There is also the internationally acclaimed Denbies Wine Estate at the bottom of Leith Hill.
Surrey is not just about walking trails though so you can combine your stay here by visiting the Roman city of Guildford, browsing the antique shops in Dorking, or visiting stately homes like the Polesdon Lacey where the Queen Mother honeymooned with her husband who was to become King George V.
Dog pubs, some dating back to as far as the 1400s, are mostly in the heart of the countryside and those who are not are the heart of the community. If you need accommodation whilst visiting this area, see the great range of luxury dog friendly Surrey cottages.
Our Top 7 Choices
Find below 7 of the best pet friendly pubs in Surrey
1. The Woolpack, Elstead
You will go a far way to find a dog-friendly pub that has such an extensive vegan menu. It has no less than four starters, seven mains and a selection of ice-cream. The mains plant-based pub grub includes delicious dishes such as butternut squash tagine and a mushroom and nut Wellington cooked by owner Gina, an Italian chef. Gina also has a penchant for cooking fish and her pizza and pasta nights are renowned. Your fur baby will be her element in the surrounding area of Godlaming that is full of wooded walking trails. Doggie treats and fresh water will be at the ready on your return.
2. The Dolphin, Betchworth
This 17th century inn, thought to have earned its name when the Dauphin of France stopped there on his way to London, is one of those pubs that take dogs that is a destination for those hooked on the surrounding countryside. The managers have a black Labrador of their own, complete with red bandana, and the regulars are rarely seen without their fur babies. The vast garden runs down to the River Mole and you can order your food from your picnic table with an umbrella that provides shade for Fido. It is a Young’s pub so expect to see resident ales such as Young’s Special and Surrey Hills Brewery’s Shere Drop and St Austell’s Proper Job.
3. The Weyford, Millbrook
It is hard to believe that this dog-friendly pub on the banks of the River Wey is a stone’s throw from Guildford’s cobbled high street. Its large beer garden is complete with heated huts and the conservatory with its pitched glass roof lets the outside in. The fact that dogs are welcome is made clear with the “pub for pups” that has dog beds, towels for wet coats and muddy paws, treats and bowls of fresh water. The Weyford supports local breweries such as Surrey Hills and Tillingbourne. Expect posh pub grub here such as Butler’s Secret cheddar and Guinness rarebit and Angus beef blade and celeriac croquettes.
4. Skimmington Castle, Reigate
This family run traditional English pub is perched on a hill overlooking Reigate Common. It is literally off the beaten track. The advantage of the “Skim,” as the regulars call it, is that it has ample parking. Walkers arrive from 9am to enjoy its “Paws for Breakfast”, do one of the many trails in the area and return for lunch or a swift pint. On tap you will always see a Harvey’s At Lewes ale, as well as beer from Pilgrim Brewery and Surrey Hills. Inside, your canine companion will have his or her own cushion and be fussed over with treats from the bar staff.
5. The Red Lion, Shamley Green
This traditional village pub is only a 10-minute drive from Guildford but seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of the Roman city. It has two open fires where your pup can warm his paws and on warm days the outdoor dining is a hit especially with views of Sunday cricket on the green. There is plenty of space for you and your dog and the water bowl is always topped up, treats at the ready. Dog pubs must consider their two-legged guests too and you will not be disappointed with the choice of ales such as Harvey’s Sussex Best and Sharpe’s Doom Bar.
6. The Cock Inn, Headley
Winner of Surrey Life’s Pub of The Year award in 2017, it is one of those pet-friendly pubs that retains all of its 1700s’ country charm. The original part of the inn was built for the stone masons who were building the church nearby. Thanks to a massive refurbishment in 2015 the pub’s original features are complemented by its bright, contemporary interior. Set in the stunning Surrey Hills that is an Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty, it is popular with dog walkers who do the Inspiring Views Walk. Rover and you can refuel here with a perfect pint and pub grub for you and some fresh water and treats for him.
7. Wheatsheaf, Ewell
Near the Hogsmill River and the site of King Henry VIII’s Nonsuch Park, this dog friendly pub has remained unchanged since 1858 when it became known as the Wheatsheaf, its ornate glass work, and original fireplaces still intact. A pub has stood on this site since the 1400s when it was the heart of the community and nothing has changed in hundreds of years hence. You and your pup might get to see Ewell St Mary’s Morris Men and the Rusty Rovers who perform outside the pub regularly. It is Cask Marque accredited and serves Young’s London Special and Sharpe’s Doombar, as well as two guest beers.
LAST WORD
Thanks to its proximity to London this landlocked county is a veritable honey pot for day-trippers who cannot get enough of its idyllic countryside and historic towns and villages. Not to mention its pets allowed alehouses. Its North Downs and hilltop woodlands appealed to royalty centuries ago, their elevated hunting lodges still jutting out from the treetops, an attraction that has endured to the present day. There are a variety of pet friendly days out in Surrey, as well as a range of the best dog walks in Surrey.
In Surrey dog friendly pubs goes without saying, so you will not have to stray too far off course to find one that will suit you and Fido will feel right at home in.